Hospice Social Worker

Gulfside Healthcare Services•New Port Richey, FL

About The Position

The Hospice Social Worker works under the direct supervision of the Social Work Manager and/or Director of Clinical Social Work, assisting with and facilitating initial and ongoing social work contacts in the field. Patients may live in private residences, assisted living facilities, or skilled nursing homes. The role uses clinical assessment, intervention, and education to maximize patient comfort and quality of life through psychosocial support, pre-bereavement services, resource identification, and education, while advocating for patients and families.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited school or university.
One year of post-MSW experience in a hospital, home health, or hospice setting.
Strong ethical standards and appropriate professional demeanor.
Experience with individual, family, and group treatment modalities.
Theoretical knowledge and experience in human development, end-of-life care, and family systems.
Ability to remain calm and professional and to troubleshoot or handle patient, family, or staff crisis situations.
Reliable transportation for timely performance of duties; proof of automobile insurance and a valid driver’s license.
Proficiency with current EMR software and other computer applications.
Strong organizational, interpersonal, and team-building skills; attention to detail; ability to multitask and remain flexible with assignments.
Skill in conflict resolution.
Ability to relate effectively to people from varied backgrounds and ethnicities.
Ability to make realistic decisions based on logical assumptions, professional ethics, best practices, factual information, and organizational resources.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and concisely and adapt communication style to the audience.
Knowledge of community health systems, resources, and financial and social aid programs.
Must complete an AHCA Level 2 Fingerprint screening for eligibility through the AHCA Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Responsibilities

Practice social work in a manner consistent with professional and agency ethics, values, integrity, and applicable legal requirements.
Maintain confidentiality regarding patients, families, and GHS staff.
Comply with applicable laws and regulations concerning collaborative agreements.
Provide empathic, compassionate, patient-centered care that supports patients and families in accepting death as part of life and enhancing quality of life.
Conduct initial and ongoing psychosocial, spiritual, and pre-bereavement assessments of patients and families.
Assist with developing and implementing personalized patient and family care plans, including counseling, anticipatory grief support, information and education, and referrals to GHS or community resources.
Provide case management services addressing patients' and families' psychosocial needs.
Help identify and support high-risk or suicidal patients and families, and those experiencing other non-medical crises.
Complete clinical documentation, psychosocial assessments, clinical notes, and secondary reports promptly, including a bereavement assessment at the time of patient death.
Meet or exceed agency productivity measures for visits.
Provide input to the Volunteer Coordinator about patient and family needs to support volunteer assignment and matching.
Attend interdisciplinary team meetings, case conferences, and staff meetings as requested, and contribute as an integral member of the interdisciplinary team.
Work flexible hours, including evenings and/or weekends, as needed or requested.
Perform other appropriate duties as requested, delegated, or assigned by the Social Work Manager or Director of Clinical Social Work.
Pursue continued professional growth through educational and in-service training programs for professional staff.
Support and follow GHS policies and procedures and company standards in the GHS Policy Manual (Employee Handbook).
Promote the company through participation in and support of community partnerships and professional organizations.